18626, Laporte, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18626, Laporte, Pennsylvania is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.06 percent of the residents in 18626 has some form of health insurance. 38.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.75 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 18626 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 26 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18626. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 166 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 175 health care providers accessible to residents in 18626, Laporte, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18626 and Primary Care Availability in Laporte

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care resources for individuals managing asthma within ZIP code 18626, focusing on the town of Laporte, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in this specific geographic area.

Laporte, nestled within the larger Sullivan County, presents a unique challenge due to its rural nature and potential limitations in healthcare infrastructure. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor for asthma management. Regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and proactive management strategies are essential to control asthma symptoms and prevent exacerbations. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate a strain on resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare system.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Laporte requires careful consideration of the population size and the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 18626 ZIP code. Data from state medical boards, insurance providers, and local healthcare networks are essential for accurate calculation. A preliminary analysis suggests that Laporte, being a rural community, might face challenges in this regard. This underscores the importance of evaluating alternative healthcare delivery models, such as telemedicine, to improve access to care.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating the quality of care provided by existing primary care providers. This includes assessing their experience in asthma management, their adherence to established asthma guidelines, and their patient satisfaction scores. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and utilize advanced diagnostic tools would likely receive higher scores. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including clear communication and proactive follow-up, are crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the Asthma Score analysis, especially in a rural setting. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Laporte to access specialists and primary care physicians remotely. This is particularly beneficial for asthma patients who may require regular monitoring and medication adjustments. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient portals would be considered more favorably. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the 18626 ZIP code is a critical prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer or collaborate with mental health professionals, providing access to counseling and support groups, would receive higher scores. This integrated approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, promoting holistic care for asthma patients.

The "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP code 18626 would be a composite measure based on the factors discussed above. Each factor would be assigned a weight based on its importance in asthma management. The overall score would then reflect the availability, quality, and accessibility of primary care resources for asthma sufferers in Laporte. This scoring system would provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

For example, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, a strong telemedicine program, and integrated mental health resources would likely receive a higher score. Conversely, a practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine capabilities, and no mental health support would likely receive a lower score. The specific numerical values assigned to each factor would be determined through a thorough data analysis and expert consultation.

Analyzing specific practices within the 18626 ZIP code requires identifying the healthcare providers operating in the area. This includes family medicine practices, internal medicine clinics, and any other providers offering primary care services. Each practice would then be evaluated based on the criteria outlined above. The analysis would also consider any affiliations or partnerships the practices have with larger healthcare systems or hospitals.

The analysis will also evaluate the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, who are essential for the comprehensive management of asthma. While primary care physicians play a crucial role in initial diagnosis and ongoing management, specialists provide expertise in complex cases and offer advanced treatment options. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists would be factored into the overall Asthma Score.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of asthma education programs and resources within the community. These programs can empower patients to manage their condition effectively, reducing the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations. The presence of support groups, educational materials, and community outreach initiatives would be considered positive indicators.

The overall "Asthma Score" is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to support asthma patients. It highlights areas of strength and areas that need improvement. The data collected can be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for a more in-depth assessment of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in Laporte, Pennsylvania. The findings can be used to advocate for improvements in access to care, promote the adoption of best practices, and ultimately improve the quality of life for individuals living with asthma in this rural community.

For a visual representation of the data and a more in-depth analysis of the healthcare resources available in Laporte and surrounding areas, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your asthma care.